Living Well with Arthritis

If you suffer from the joint pain of arthritis, you already know how arthritis can impact your life. When you have arthritis, you can still live an active life. You can live well with arthritis.

Arthritis is a degenerative condition which begins with inflammation in your joints, followed by destruction of the joints. Your chiropractor can help relieve the pain of arthritis.

There are several types of arthritis, but the two most common types are osteoarthritis, caused by joint wear and tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune condition.

You are at greater risk of suffering from arthritis if you have a family history of arthritis, or:

• You are older
• You are a woman
• You are overweight
• You have suffered a joint or bone injury

You may be developing arthritis if you experience:

• Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
• Inflammation in your joints
• Decreased range of motion
• Pain during movement

Living well with arthritis means making adjustments to your diet and lifestyle and taking advantage of wellness and healing services from your chiropractor. Your chiropractor can help you establish a diet and exercise plan to:

• Limit or avoid inflammatory foods like foods with a high sugar content
• Keep you flexible with stretching, yoga, and other gentle movements
• Keep you active with an exercise program that doesn’t stress your joints

When you experience mild arthritis pain, you can:

• Apply hot and cold packs to your painful joints
• Take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medication
• Do gentle stretches and exercises to prevent stiffness and maintain mobility
• Use assistive solutions like canes, walkers, and other devices

For moderate to severe arthritis pain, your chiropractor may recommend:

• Manual manipulation to help prevent joint friction
• Therapeutic massage to relax muscles and decrease joint pain
• Topical creams containing menthol or capsaicin to soothe joints
• Bracing and splinting to provide support

You can still live well, even with arthritis. To learn more about the signs, symptoms, chiropractic treatment, diet, and lifestyle tips when you have arthritis, talk with an expert. Call your chiropractor today.